Farm Fresh and Within Arms Reach

As the executive chef at Nobu Honolulu, it should come as no surprise that Jennifer Chow takes a great deal of pride when it comes to what goes in and out of her kitchen. That’s why having a thriving farmers market located just steps away has proven to be such a fruitful experience for the young chef. Born and raised in Hawai‘i, Chef Jenn’s palate was keenly honed by the flavors of the islands, but when it came to cultivating authentic relationships with local farmers, having a market within arms’ reach allowed her to plant deeper roots in the community.

The cool factor and convenience of having a farmers market within a few footsteps of her kitchen at Nobu isn’t lost on Chef Jenn. “Having a real relationship with the people that grow some our food brings the whole process full circle to me. I can talk to the folks at MA‘O about what’s growing well for this season, learn more about how the weather affects certain crops, and taste new flavors based on what’s fresh. I think building those personal relationships with the people that grow our food is invaluable.”

With a bounty of farm-fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices at the ready, Chef Jenn is all smiles when she departs for her weekly farmers market voyage on Saturday mornings. 

Whether you’re an esteemed chef at Nobu searching for the freshest fare or are simply looking to soak in a weekend morning, a trip through the Kaka‘ako Farmers market always yields a fun catch. 

Whether it’s MA‘O Farms or Counter Culture, you’ll find a bevy of fresh produce—grown right here on O‘ahu by local farmers—at your disposal at the Kaka‘ako Farmers Market. On your next trip, take note from Chef Jenn and expand your culinary palate by tasting new things, asking questions, and learning more about the people and produce that sustain our community. 

With the day’s catch tucked neatly underneath her arm, Chef Jenn makes the two-minute walk back from the market to the kitchen to prepare for the night’s upcoming meal. 

The Kaka‘ako Farmers Market is located at 1050 Ala Moana Blvd, adjacent to Victoria Ward Park, and is open every Saturday, from 8am to 12pm.